Rating: 
Summary: Without spin
Review: This look at a stand up's life, (a comic I didn't know, hadn't seen perform,) had the ring of authenticity. I believed that Cynthia True did the work and asked the questions. Her passion for, and her perceptions of this world of comics and one individual in it, his early demise, was true to the time in which he lived. Not only do I learn Bill Hicks, but I learn the era that surrounded him, providing his material. It was clear that the author not only revered Bill Hicks but that she was not a stranger in this world of comics.
Rating: 
Summary: GOD THIS WAS BAD
Review: This writer has no talent...I hope she retires her pen to avoid any further damage to the literay world!
Rating: 
Summary: Great man, good bio
Review: Those who are posthumously labeled geniuses frequently share a single trait in common: an unwavering dedication to their art, whether that art is stand-up, painting, or relativity theory. Bill Hicks decided early on in life that the most attractive medium by which to change the social consciousness was comedy: if someone can laugh at the absurdity of their situation, or better yet see for the first time that it *is* absurd, then the world will be changed for the better. Beginning at the age of 13, Hicks dedicated the rest of his life to doing thoughtful, angry, moral, and, yes, funny material that caused even those who knew the great Lenny Bruce to sit up and take notice.There are certain points of view that are actively and uncomfortably ignored (or suppressed, depending on your point of view.) Hicks was one of those. What he had to say needed to be said, but because of the limitations in American television programming (both legislative and self-imposed by the networks) Hicks was never able to communicate his message to the American public. Cynthia True's biography of Hicks is worthwhile and detailed study of his life. She gives solid insights into Hicks's personality, and the psychology behind the man. It is well researched and laid out, although at times a bit dry. All in all it is a good book, and a worthwhile study of one of the greatest comedians of all time.
Rating: 
Summary: An Average Writer with An Above-Average Subject
Review: True is an average writer, and the book reads like an edition of People Magazine. However, it is interesting to learn about Hicks beyond his brilliant comedy act. Interesting to learn that Denis Leary stole much of his act from Hicks. This is an average book that at times makes even the fanstastic Bill Hicks seem pedestrian. It could use some re-write.
Rating:
Summary: For the Fans
Review: True's account of Bills life was brilliant for me. It gave an insight into his personal life that I and all his fans have been longing to know for years.
It's lack of comedy wasn't due to the author, more the loss the comic timing in written word. The books biggest drawback is that I don't think it will bring in any new fans to Bill's work. He is/was an inspiration to listen to. But you can't just say that and people will convert.
I also think his beliefs and emotions weren't tapped into deeply enough. He was an angry man, though reading the book I couldn't really tell where that anger came from.
Also I read the UK version which unfortunately had no pictures that I was just hanging for. All in all an enthralling read for Hick's acolytes.
Rating:
Summary: Pales in comparison to the man and his ideas
Review: What seems to be a common occurence is something must be good if it is written in light of a subject we already endear. If one is familiar with Hicks' albums, and the videos available from Sacred Cow Productions, he or she could have written a much better book. The book was written not for anyone who wants deeper insight into Hicks or more importantly his ideas, but for anyone who wants an introduction. A few bits are worth the read, but after slicing away things that one can easily get elsewehere, there isn't much left to get remotely excited about. Most of the photos in the book are found on his albums as well as the material. For 15 bucks you can buy much better primary source material at Sacred Cow AND go to the library to read Hicks' article regarding the Letterman fiaso. To sum up, if you are looking for something intellectually stimulating regarding Mr. Hicks, go elsewhere.
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